Family surname; largely aristocratic, yet also marked by common peasantry. Widespread throughout North Africa, tracing roots to non-Arab converts to Islam in the 7th century, with a number settling in Spain and surrounding regions following the Muslim conquest of Andalusia. Family remained in Spain following Reconquista and expulsion of Muslim populace, yet often under guise of different religions; as seen in minority number of 'Bensaid' Moriscos presently found in the region today. Literally means Son(s) of the Happy, or Lucky. Current descendants mainly found due to diaspora in Southern France, Spain, Italy and a number of other countries and in much smaller numbers in the United States, South America and Canada.

Genetics: Tending to fall within Haplogroup E1b1b (E-M215), which does not necessitate Berber roots and Halpogroup J-P58; although post-colonial and civil-war displacement has made permanent changes to the gene pool.